Faculty & Subject Teachers
Early Childhood Faculty
Blake Romney
Parent Toddler Teacher
Blake holds a Bachelor of Arts in Photography from California State University, Sacramento and has studied Early Childhood Education at Sacramento City College. She is currently enrolled in the LifeWays Early Childhood Training Program, deepening her understanding and knowledge of Waldorf early childhood education. A mother and children’s book author, Blake also has a background in working with children through mindfulness and heart-centered practices. Blake brings creativity, warmth and a deep appreciation for the wonder of childhood to her work with young children.
Ms. Blake joined Camellia in 2026.
Contact Blake Romney: BRomney@camelliawaldorf.org
Douglas Layson
Apple Blossom Preschool Teacher
Douglas holds both an Associate and Bachelor’s degree in Child Development and earned his Waldorf Teaching Certificate through the Bay Area Center for Waldorf Teacher Training (BACWTT). A Davis Waldorf School alumnus himself, Douglas has a lifelong connection to Waldorf education and brings both his background in child development and his own experience growing up in Waldorf education to his work with young children.
Douglas has a passion for woodworking and basketball!
Mr. Douglas joined Camellia in 2026.
Contact Douglas Layson: Dlayson@camelliawaldorf.org
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Celina Iniego
Apple Blossom Assistant Preschool Teacher
Ms. Celina joined Camellia in 2024.
Contact Celina Iniego: Ciniego@camelliawaldorf.org
Barbara Weiler
Cherry Blossom Preschool Teacher
Barbara holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Studies from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and has completed over 20 units of early childhood education. Barbara earned her Waldorf Teacher Certificate from the Bay Area Center for Waldorf Teacher Training. As a proud alumna of the Sacramento Waldorf School, where she attended kindergarten through 8th grade, Barbara feels right at home in the Camellia Waldorf School community.
Ms. Barbara joined Camellia in 2023.
Contact Barbara Weiler: bweiler@camelliawaldorf.org
Akasha Cooks
Cherry Blossom Assistant Preschool Teacher
Ms. Akasha joined Camellia in 2025.
Contact Akasha Cooks: Acooks@camelliawaldorf.org
Olga Morozova
Lavender Kindergarten Teacher
Olga Morozova has a master’s degree in psychology from the State Pedagogical University in Russia and received her Waldorf early childhood teaching certificate from Rudolf Steiner College. Olga has lived worldwide, teaching in Russia, Hungary, Switzerland, Austria and Canada.
With over 20 years of classroom experience, Ms. Olga brings a wealth of knowledge and a deep commitment to education. She is devoted to fostering creativity, connection and a sense of belonging in her students. Originally from Russia, Ms. Olga draws on a rich tapestry of cultural experiences to support each child’s unique needs and family background. Her goal is to make school feel like a second home, a warm, welcoming space for both children and parents. Her love of music and her beautiful singing voice fill the classroom with warmth and joy, creating an atmosphere of harmony and rhythm that nurtures her students each day.
Olga has two children who are Waldorf graduates. Outside of her teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family and exploring the world through travel.
Committees: Student Support, Hiring Search and Board of Trustees
Ms. Olga joined Camellia in 2016.
Contact Olga Morozova: omorozova@camelliawaldorf.org
Kelsey Stalcup
Lavender Kindergarten Assistant Teacher
Kelsey holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with a concentration in Wellness from California State University, Monterey Bay. She has worked with children from infancy through age five in both classroom and one-on-one settings, including as a nanny and Behavioral Technician providing early intervention support for young children.
Her background in human health services has given Kelsey experience supporting children’s individual development and working with a wide range of children and families. She especially enjoys early childhood education, where she can nurture meaningful connections and support the growth and well-being of young children.
Ms. Kelsey joined Camellia in 2024.
Contact Kelsey Stalcup : Kstalcup@camelliawaldorf.org
Haley Cavanaugh
Marigold Kindergarten Teacher
As a proud Camellia alum, Haley Cavanaugh is honored to be the founding teacher of Camellia’s third kindergarten class! She studied anthroposophy and Waldorf education at Rudolf Steiner College before earning her bachelor’s degree in philosophy from California State University, Sacramento. With over 10 years of experience working with children, she spent three years teaching in a mixed-age Waldorf Kindergarten on California’s Central Coast, which deepened her connection to and belief in the transformative power of Waldorf education. Prior to joining Camellia, she also worked with a local nonprofit serving foster youth for five years. This experience solidified her commitment to serving children, ultimately, leading her back to the classroom.
Ms. Haley recently became a mother, which has deepened her appreciation for the value of early childhood development and education. As a Camellia Kindergarten teacher, she holds invaluable lessons from her own Waldorf education, including a sense of wonder, joy, safety, and a deep love of learning.
Ms. Haley serves on the following Committees: Festivals and Ceremonies
Ms. Haley joined Camellia in 2024
Contact Haley Cavanaugh: Hcavanaugh@camelliawaldorf.org
Kelly Maroney
Marigold Kindergarten Assistant Teacher
Ms. Kelly brings years of childcare experience to her work at Camellia and is currently studying Early Childhood Education, continuing to deepen her knowledge of child development. She joined Camellia’s Extended Care program in 2022, where her longtime interest in alternative approaches to education grew into a love and appreciation for Waldorf education, particularly the warmth and wonder of early childhood.
In addition to her work in kindergarten, Ms. Kelly is a teacher in Camellia’s Summer Program. As her experience and understanding of Waldorf education continue to deepen, she is grateful to be part of a community she considers a second home.
Ms. Kelly joined Camellia in 2022
Contact Kelly Maroney: kmoroney@camelliawaldorf.org
Elementary and Middle School Faculty
Nicole Sheahan
1st Grade Teacher
Nicole Sheahan holds a B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Drama from California State University, Sacramento and an M.Ed. in Education from Chapman University. She also attended the Waldorf Foundations and Grades Teacher Training program at Rudolf Steiner College. Nicole brings more than 25 years of experience as an educator and school administrator, including teaching in mainstream and public Waldorf settings and serving as a school principal. Her connection to Waldorf education began in high school and deepened when she chose Waldorf education for her own two children. Nicole brings a wealth of experience, a deep appreciation for Waldorf education and a love of working with children to her role as Camellia’s First Grade Teacher.
Outside the classroom, Nicole loves all things related to theater and the creative arts. She enjoys a good book, spending time with loved ones and being in nature, where she finds inspiration in the beauty of the natural world.
Ms. Sheahan joined Camellia in 2026.
Contact Nicole Sheahan: Nsheahan@camelliawaldorf.org
Noel Jimenez
2nd Grade Teacher
Noel Jimenez holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Rhode Island College and pursued graduate studies at the Acupuncture and Integrative Medicine College in Berkeley. She earned her Waldorf Teacher Certificate from Sound Circle Center for Anthroposophy in Seattle, Washington.
Prior to joining Camellia, Noel spent two years as a lower grades assistant teacher at Davis Waldorf School, supporting the growth and development of young children. A mother of three, she also homeschooled two of her children, an experience that deepened her appreciation for individualized learning and the unique unfolding of each child. Noel brings warmth, patience and a nurturing presence to her work, along with a deep appreciation for Waldorf education’s holistic approach to teaching and learning.
Ms. Noel joined Camellia in 2025.
Contact Noel Jimenez: Njimenez@camelliawaldorf.org
Catalina Soliman
2nd Grade Assistant Teacher
A former Waldorf student herself, Ms. Catalina attended the Waldorf school in Iasi, for grades 1through 12, and went on to complete three years of early childhood studies at Alexandru Ioan Cuza University in Iasi, Romania. While at university, she studied different teaching methods, including Waldorf, Montessori and traditional primary education in Romania. Following her time at university, Ms. Catalina taught preschool and grades 1-4, eventually finding her way back to Waldorf education when she was offered a kindergarten teacher assistant position at Edinburgh Steiner School in Scotland. While there, she felt back at home and had the opportunity to work, study, and research amongst other anthroposophical therapists.
In her spare time, Catalina enjoys artistic activities like drawing, singing, painting; spending time with family, and traveling. She also wrote, illustrated, and published two children’s books. Ms. Catalina is a Camellia parent of two children.
Ms. Catalina joined Camellia in 2021.
Contact Catalina Soliman: csoliman@camelliawaldorf.org
Sarah Casebeer
3rd Grade Teacher
Sarah Casebeer has a bachelor’s degree in Women’s Studies from the University of New Hampshire. She earned her Waldorf teacher training certificate from the Bay Area Center for Waldorf Teacher Training in 2009, the same year she began working at Camellia Waldorf School.
Before becoming a teacher, Ms. Casebeer nannied for young children and worked at Lifeways at Rudolf Steiner College. She has been a Camellia parent for 15 years and a full-time teacher at Camellia for 12 years. She took the Class of 2017 from grades 1-4 and picked up the Class of 2024 in the 2nd grade, seeing them through graduation this past June. Sarah has also been a substitute teacher and an assistant teacher in kindergarten at Camellia.
Sarah is passionate about visual arts and enjoys yoga, paddleboarding, camping, reading, and playing games with her family. Her oldest son attended CWS from Kindergarten through 8th Grade and is now in college at UC Santa Cruz. She also has a son in Camellia's 5th Grade.
Committees: Leadership and Student Support
Ms. Casebeer Joined Camellia in 2009.
Contact Sarah Casebeer: scasebeer@camelliawaldorf.org
Simone Mason
3rd Grade Assistant Teacher
Simone Mason is passionate about child development and has over 14 years of experience working with children. She discovered Waldorf education in 2009 while working as a nanny, later deepening her knowledge through classes at Lifeways. She brings warmth, rhythm, and care to students, reflecting her strong Waldorf values.
Simone is a Camellia parent of two children.
Ms. Simone joined Camellia in 2024
Contact Simone Mason: smason@camelliawaldorf.org
Fatima Marin
4th Grade Teacher
Fatima Marin holds an M.A. in Humanities and Social Thought, with a focus in Literary Cultures, from New York University’s Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Her background in education includes teaching college composition at Brooks Institute of Photography and Manhattanville College, as well as working as a senior writer and editor developing high school curriculum and K–12 educational materials.
Fatima has been part of the Camellia community for more than a decade as a parent, longtime Board member, substitute teacher, Creative Writing teacher and volunteer. Her years within the community have fostered a deep appreciation for Waldorf education and its approach to meeting each child as an individual. As Camellia’s Fourth Grade Teacher, Fatima brings a love of learning and storytelling, a commitment to supporting diverse learners and a longstanding connection to the children and families of our school.
Ms. Marin joined Camellia in 2026
Shane Jewell
5th Grade Teacher
Shane Jewell holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in music performance from Oberlin College and Conservatory of Music, with concentrations in physics, mathematics, and environmental studies and has completed an International Honors Program in the study of climate change, economics, anthropology, social justice, and sustainable development. Mr. Jewell earned his Waldorf teaching certificate from Sound Circle Center for Arts and Anthroposophy in Seattle, Washington.
Mr. Jewell joined the Camellia faculty in 2021, teaching Choir and Middle School Math and has quickly become a beloved member of our community. With over 22 years of teaching experience, including 12 years as a Waldorf teacher, Mr. Jewell has taught both in the grades and at the high school level. Mr. Jewell grew up attending Waldorf schools as the child of two Waldorf teachers. In addition, Mr. Jewell is the founder and musical director of a choral ensemble, has hiked 1,000 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, has bicycled more than 100,000 miles in countries around the world and is passionate about sustainable living and organic farming.
Committees: Concerts and Assemblies and Leadership
Mr. Jewell joined Camellia in 2021
Contact Shane Jewell: sjewell@camelliawaldorf.org
Denis Fitts
6th Grade Teacher
Denis Fitts grew up in the Bay Area and has taught in Waldorf schools for over 41 years. He received his Waldorf Teacher Certificate and BA in Waldorf Education from Rudolf Steiner College in 1981. Denis was the founding teacher of Portland Waldorf School, where he brought his first class through the grades beginning in 1982. He began teaching at Sacramento Waldorf School in 1990, leading three lower school classes through the grades as well as teaching mathematics for six years in the high school. Additionally, he was an adjunct faculty member for many years in the summer Teacher Education Program at Rudolf Steiner College. He recently taught at Live Oak Waldorf School for three years in grades 6 through 8.
Denis has four children, all of whom are Waldorf graduates. In addition to his family, Denis' special joys are paragliding, music, camping and traveling.
Committees: Leadership and Concerts and Assemblies
Mr. Fitts joined Camellia in 2023
Contact Denis Fitts: dfitts@camelliawaldorf.org
Elijah Egbert
7th Grade Teacher
Elijah Egbert holds a bachelor’s degree in Rhetoric from the University of California, Berkeley and studied Philosophy at Sacramento City College. A former Waldorf student himself, Elijah attended Camellia Waldorf School, kindergarten through 8th grade and later graduated from Sacramento Waldorf School. He joined the Camellia faculty for the 2020-2021 school year as a grades assistant teacher and substitute, where he developed a strong appreciation for the teaching aspect of Waldorf education. The following year, he returned as a class teacher and began studying with Dr. Lakshmi Prasanna, a renowned Anthroposophic Pediatrician and Waldorf teacher educator. Elijah is completing his second year of Waldorf teacher training and is so happy to be back at Camellia in the role of a teacher.
In addition to his teaching role, Elijah is a skilled musician and music educator. He both plays and teaches guitar.
Committees: Festivals and Ceremonies
Mr. Egbert joined Camellia in 2020
Contact Elijah Egbert: eegbert@camelliawaldorf.org
Amber Fitts
8th Grade Teacher
Amber Fitts earned her bachelor’s degree in environmental studies from the University of California Santa Cruz. In 2010, she earned certificates in Waldorf education and Eurythmy from Rudolf Steiner College in Fair Oaks, California.
Ms. Fitts taught Camellia’s class of 2018 from first through eighth grade, and has been a member of the faculty leadership team since 2014. Currently, she is delighted to be on the journey with the class of 2027 which she began teaching in first grade.
Ms. Fitts’ passions are in the movement arts: yoga, eurythmy, modern dance, folk dance and ballet. She also enjoys spending time in nature and cultivates an active interest in world travel and cultures, having ventured through Taiwan, Thailand, the Yucatan, Ireland, Peru, Italy and Switzerland, as well as many of America’s national parks. In 2022, Ms. Fitts and her husband became proud adoptive parents, welcoming home their teenage son from Taiwan.
Committees: Festivals and Ceremonies
Ms. Fitts Joined Camellia in 2010
Alison Davis
Grades Support Teacher
Alison Davis is a native of Detroit, Michigan who has lived all over the world and called California home since 2009. She holds degrees from the University of Kansas, the University of Notre Dame, Stanford University, Rudolf Steiner College, and Antioch University, where she was the first student to earn a doctorate in education specializing in Waldorf pedagogy. Before joining Camellia's faculty, Alison taught at Sacramento Waldorf School and Waldorf School of the Peninsula.
Outside of school, Alison is a scholar and artist whose work has been featured in numerous literary and scholarly publications, popular media, and two books of poetry. She is a certified fitness, yoga, and meditation teacher, personal trainer, endurance athlete, and passionate advocate for food justice. She is happiest when exploring the American River Parkway with her children.
Committees: Concerts and Assemblies
Dr. Davis joined Camellia in 2024
Contact Alison Davis: adavis@camelliawaldorf.org
Grades 1st through 8th begin each day with their class teacher, in main lesson, followed by subject classes. These classes include Movement, Spanish, Woodworking, Gardening, Handwork, Strings, Guitar and Choir. While Main Lesson provides an in-depth exploration of subjects in blocks of four to six weeks, subject classes run throughout the year.
Catherine Mackie
Middle School Math Teacher
Ms. Mackie is a dedicated educator with 10 years of experience teaching K-8 mathematics, including eight years of Middle School teaching. She has a Masters Degree in Education, as well as a B.S. in Business Administration and an A.S. in Computer Aided Drafting and Design. Ms. Mackie has a passion for creating a positive learning environment for her students and a strong background in supporting diverse learning needs. In her free time Ms. Mackie loves hiking, paddle boarding, painting and ceramics.
Ms. Mackie joined Camellia in 2025.
Contact Catherine Mackie: cmackie@camelliawaldorf.org
Carmen Gunn
Grades' Movement & Student Support Specialist
Carmen Gunn is a graduate of the Spacial Dynamics Institute and earned her associate’s degree in physical science from the Collegio Alessandro Manzoni in Monza, Italy. Ms. Gunn is a certified personal trainer, strength coach, group fitness instructor, and archery instructor. She is also certified in pilates and yoga. Before joining Camellia’s faculty, Ms. Gunn had worked for 20 years as a teacher in the health and fitness industry.
In 2025, Ms. Gunn completed the Extra Lesson Remedial Program. At Camellia, she brings this training into her work with students by using movement to assess and support the developmental needs of each age group. With grades 6–8, she integrates remedial movement along with painting and drawing exercises, creating a balance of physical and artistic work. Additionally, Ms. Gunn meets with students one-on-one and collaborates with the Student Support Committee as needed to provide individualized support.
Carmen Gunn is a parent of two Camellia alumni students.
Committees: Hiring Search and Student Support
Ms. Gunn joined Camellia in 2010.
Contact Carmen Gunn: cgunn@camelliawaldorf.org
Tranice Perry
Middle School Movement
Ms. Perry brings a wealth of health and fitness experience to our Middle School Movement program. As a certified personal trainer and health coach, she is passionate about movement and has guided a wide range of individuals—from young athletes to older adults—on their fitness journeys. Ms. Perry is especially energized by working with middle schoolers, finding joy in supporting them as they build strength, confidence and a lifelong appreciation for movement. Her enthusiasm and care create a special space where students can explore their abilities, challenge themselves, have fun and experience the joy of moving.
Ms. Perry joined Camellia in 2025.
Contact Tranice Perry: tperry@camelliawaldorf.org
Reylynn Imai
Strings Teacher & Ensemble
Ms. Imai comes to Camellia with almost 30 years of experience as a violin instructor, including positions as Applied Violin Instructor at Sacramento City College, String Coach at McClatchy High School, and private violin instructor. She has also performed in various settings including the Camellia Symphony and Delta Strings Quartet.
Ms. Imai received her Bachelor of Music in Performance and Bachelor of Arts in Humanities from Sacramento State University as well as her Masters of Arts in Humanities from San Francisco State University, and is currently the President of the American String Teachers Association of Sacramento. In addition to her vast professional experience.
Ms. Imai joined Camellia in 2024
Lulú Flores
Grades Spanish Teacher
Maestra Lulú holds a bachelor's degree in Nutrition from Universidad del Valle de Atemajac. In college, her interest in child development and maternal health grew and after giving birth to her son, she became a Certified Lactation Educator and accredited La Leche League Leader. Maestra Lulú worked at the Mexican Consulate in San Jose, offering nutrition education for families, and later became coordinator of the Parents cook with Heart program with the Latino College Academy parents.
After attending the Waldorf en casa" with Oswaldo Alvarez Pedroza, a Mexican Waldorf teacher, Lulú fell in love with Waldorf education. Maestra Lulú continued on with The Art of Teaching Spanish the following summer and later a curriculum workshop for Waldorf Spanish teachers with Michelle Jarvis. Additionally, Maestra Lulú recently completed the Maternal and Child Nutrition Masters program at the University of California Davis. When Lulú isn’t teaching Spanish, you will find her spending time with her son and husband, singing, writing, playing the guitar, and dancing. She enjoys bike riding with her family, taking care of her quails, hiking, baking, and cooking homemade Mexican food.
Maestra Lulú joined Camellia in 2021
Contact Maestra Lulú: lflores@camelliawaldorf.org
Hubert Bones
Woodworking Teacher
Hubert Bones is a craftsman and woodworker. He has always enjoyed volunteering his time, sharing his skills, and making projects for the school. As the Woodworking teacher, he enjoys working with students of all grades, bringing new projects and opportunities for learning and growth. When Mr. Bones is not teaching, he is working to keep the Camellia campus beautiful and healthy, creating and maintaining our incredible grounds, and making sure it is as beautiful as it can be for the children to enjoy.
Mr. Bones joined Camellia in 2021
Contact Mr. Bones : hbones@camelliawaldorf.org
Elijah Egbert
Band Ensemble
Mr. Egbert has a bachelor’s degree in Rhetoric from the University of California Berkeley. Mr. Egbert was a Waldorf student himself, attending Camellia Waldorf School through 8th grade. He is an experienced musician, guitar player, and teacher, and is excited to offer his musical skills to 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade ensemble students.
Mr. Egbert joined Camellia in 2020
Contact Mr. Egbert: eegbert@camelliawaldorf.org
Elyssa Lata
Choir Teacher
Elyssa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music with an emphasis in voice and piano. She brings a wealth of teaching experience, including four years of classroom music instruction, directing musical theater and vocal ensembles for elementary and middle school students, and teaching private voice and piano lessons to learners ranging from young children to adults.
Elyssa is passionate about helping students discover the joy of music, build confidence through singing, and experience the beauty of making music together.
Ms. Lata joined Camellia in 2026.
Contact Elyssa Lata: Elata@camelliawaldorf.org
Iman Hassen
Handwork & Substitute Teacher Coordinator
Iman is a Waldorf School graduate who attended Waldorf School of the Peninsula, where Alison Davis was one of her beloved teachers. Later, she worked alongside Alison as an assistant and substitute teacher at the same school.
Iman brings a passion for poetry, drama, music, and social justice, as well as creativity, empathy, and patience—all of which will enrich the experience of our students. She studied at Mills College and College of San Mateo.
Iman joined Camellia in 2024.
Contact Iman Hassen: Ihassen@camelliawaldorf.org